SIMPLY AMAZING: Coda Technologies 07x Preamplifier


I have in-house Coda Technologies 07x preamplifier, which is the latest iteration of their '0' series linestages.  Very briefly, over the last seven years I have had over five solid state preamplifiers, price range was between 4K to 20K, in for auditioning in my system.  They were quite good, but lacked what my tube based linestages had to offer.  The solid state pieces were wickedly transparent, micro-detailed, tight accurate bass extension, and had great overall dynamics.  However, they lacked the organic timbres/tonality, 3D imaging, and the ability to create a sense of space between the players that my tube based preamplifiers produced in my system. 

So, I was concerned that based on my personal preferences that the Coda 07x might not be my "sonic cup of tea".  Boy was I wrong!  Besides, the superlative build quality, starting with the double-sided gold-plated circuit boards, and the sane prices Coda charges compared to other much more insanely priced gear, the 07x is priced at $6'500, this preamplifier has patiently shocked me regarding it might be the best synthesis between what solid state offers (transparency-clarity/low frequency extension-control/micro-details/speed-dynamics) and the best of what tubes have to offer (pristine timbres-tonality-color/holographic imaging/three-dimensional sound-staging with a sense of air around the individual instruments).

Coda always, at least in the America "flies under the radar" compared to other US manufacturers, but based on performance, build quality, and  smart evolved engineering they offer cutting edge equipment at reasonable prices that deserve to be heard by more music lovers. I'll get into all the little details in my review on the performance of the 07x, but for right now if you are thinking about purchasing a solid state linestage, consider giving Doug Dale a call to hear this very special piece.
teajay
@audiozen this is not like you. You should listen to it first, as you typically do, as far as your posts go, you always listened,1st. I am sure the Coda is a fine preamp, but, there are many..........Teajay is an individual, as we all are, and no one is doubting his opinion. Just sayin'......
lrm1jaf - you queried terry about how the coda compares to the microzotl preamplifier.  earlier he stated:

"...The longer I have the 07X , in-house for a professional review in the near future, it is becoming apparent to my ears that this Coda preamp belongs in the very special category of "the best of the best". And this is coming from a listener who is inclined to only use tube based linestages. How the 07x does color and space out does my reference tube preamplifier..."

i  believe it's the microzotl he's talking about...  looks like i have just added another pre to my shortlist for audition.  i never thought i'd want to be trying a s/s preamp...

doug s.
terry, here's a question for you - i've seen expired ads for used 07x's dating back to december of 2015 - has this model been out that long?  

kindest regards,

doug s.
Hey Doug,

No, the 07x that I have in for review is the latest generation and has not been out until recently.
hi terry,

so, coda hasn't changed the model number?  a 4 year old 07x is different from a new 07x?  any idea how to figure out from which serial number onwards, is the latest generation?  ask the mfr?

i know other mfr's - linn for example - have made changes to their electronics, w/o changing the model number.

thanks again,

doug